Texans Rush to Aid Fire Victims in California: Ways You Can Make a Difference
DALLAS — The devastation left behind by the wildfires in Altadena, California, is unimaginable. Former North Texan Lauren Fordinal was left in tears as she and her husband, Christopher Fordinal, drove through the charred remains of their neighborhood after the fires swept through.
“All of the houses are gone. All the houses are gone. All the houses are gone,” Lauren expressed in a video capturing the heartbreaking scene. Their own little blue home, where they lived with their two daughters, was reduced to rubble, with only a chimney standing as a solemn reminder of what once was.
The Fordinals, like many others, are victims of the Eaton Fire, which has destroyed over 12,000 homes so far. The Palisades Fire, covering 24,000 acres, has also wreaked havoc in the region, with containment efforts still ongoing.
Texans Extend a Helping Hand
In response to the crisis, the Texas Division of Emergency Management, Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System, and Texas Emergency Medical Task Force are joining forces to send over 135 firefighters, emergency management personnel, and medical staff to assist in the relief efforts. Additionally, more than 45 fire engines, ambulances, command vehicles, and equipment are being dispatched to California to aid in the firefighting operations.
Community Support and Relief Efforts
Texans On Mission and The Potter’s House in Dallas are also stepping up to support the fire victims. The Potter’s House is mobilizing resources, including an 18-wheeler loaded with essential supplies like diapers, baby food, and blankets, to provide immediate assistance to those in need.
Jaylen Bledsoe, a spokesperson for The Potter’s House, highlighted the organization’s commitment to aiding the affected communities, emphasizing the importance of collective support during such trying times.
How You Can Help
Christopher Fordinal, deeply moved by the outpouring of support, encourages individuals to contribute to organizations like Serve Ministries and the American Red Cross to help those impacted by the wildfires. As a board member of Serve Ministries, Fordinal ensures that all donations go directly to the families affected by the fires, emphasizing the urgent need for both immediate and long-term assistance.
While the road to recovery may be long, the resilience and solidarity shown by communities like North Texas give hope to those facing the aftermath of this catastrophic event. As we stand together in solidarity, every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference in rebuilding the lives of those affected by the wildfires.